Pedestrian Accidents

Accidents causing injury to area pedestrians represent a small but significant percentage of the overall number of auto accidents that occur in any given year. Pedestrian accidents are increasing in the age of cell phones and population growth.

Where Pedestrian Accidents Happen

The greatest number of pedestrian accidents occur in areas of highest population and public transit: Portland, Vancouver, Beaverton, Clackamas, etc. Quite simply, more people means more traffic and more walkers. And with people opting for public transportation, the roads also become crowded with people walking to and from their rides.

Serious Bodily Injury and Death

The severity of Pedestrian Accidents is much more serious for pedestrians than those suffered in car to car collisions. This is borne out by the disproportionate percentage of fatal accidents involving pedestrians. Despite being involved in less than 10% of injury accidents, pedestrians represented over 25% of those killed in car accidents. Clearly, drivers are protected in accidents with other drivers by air bags, seat belts, and of course their cars. Pedestrians have none of these protections, not to mention that the cars and autos that injure them typically weigh ten to twenty times as much as they do. Unfortunately, sometimes “looking both ways before you cross” just isn’t enough.

If you have been hit in a pedestrian accident, it is a good idea to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer, even if you do not end up hiring one. While pedestrian accident cases may seem straightforward, the complexity of each situation varies, and you may be able to net a greater recovery with the help of a lawyer-particularly one exceptional knowledge and experience. The Philbrook Law Office can give you the information decide what is in your best interests during a free, no-obligation consultation. We have over 15 years experience in pedestrian accident cases. Please call us at 360-695-3309 for a consultation

Accidents Involving Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists

I understand that not all arrests or accidents occur during regular business hours. You can reach an attorney at all hours, and also schedule an appointment for weekends and evenings. I accept all major credit cards and have access to Russian and Spanish language interpreters.

Contact my firm at 360-695-3309 to schedule your free consultation.aIf you have been injured as a pedestrian by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, you most likely are eligible for compensation through your own insurance provider, even though you were not driving or riding in your car at the time of the accident. This also applies to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which pay your medical bills even before you are able to reach a settlement with the responsible party. Often times pedestrian victims are covered under the responsible party’s PIP policy as well as their own. Depending on the insurance policies involved, the circumstances of the accident, and the type and severity of the injuries, we may be able to help a pedestrian recover compensation even if the driver who hit him/her was uninsured or underinsured.

Both car and truck drivers are subject to the same guidelines listed in the Motor Vehicle Code. However, the actions (or inactions) of truck drivers are subject to more stringent regulations than those of car drivers. A number of issues are present in a truck vs. pedestrian accident that are absent in a typical car vs. pedestrian accident. These issues include:

The difficulty of judging the rate of approach of semi-trucks and other larger vehicles.

The difficulty of seeing pedestrians in blind spots in front of, to the right of, or behind a semi-trailer.

Broken or inadequate mirrors, horn equipment, and other warning devices.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, and you have questions about your legal rights, please call us at 360-695-3309 for an immediate, no-obligation consultation. You will also receive an immediate response by emailing us at matthew@philbrook-law.com. We look forward to speaking with you.

Free Consultation + Case Evaluation

The Law Office of Matthew Philbrook can help you receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, future wages, pain and suffering, mental suffering and the loss of enjoyment of life. Monetary compensation can never repair the heartache and suffering, but it can help with the financial burdens.

We are an experienced personal injury law office and I will conduct an investigation to ensure all evidence is preserved to properly pursue your case.

Immediately following a pedestrian accident, the insurance company will begin their investigation by obtaining recorded statements, interviewing witnesses, photographing the scene, obtaining a copy of the police report – typically within the first week of the accident. This may not be in your best interest. The insurance company hopes to avoid future medical expenses, lost wages and other damages such as permanent disability or corrective surgery.
While an insurance adjuster may answer your questions and appear friendly and helpful, remember that the adjuster works for the other person’s insurance company, not you.

We will manage your case with personal, compassionate attention while you focus on your recovery. There is never a cost to you until you receive your settlement. Establishing the appropriate value of your claim for personal injury involves evaluating the nature and extent of the injury, the losses that are recoverable and the liability issues related to the accident. If you’re unsure about your case, a FREE consultation can provide you with peace of mind. We personally ensure that you understand your rights, your options, and the legal consequences of your decisions before proceeding. We are committed to obtaining the best possible settlement for you.